Dentist Near DeBary Says These 5 Problems Can Occur If You Don’t Floss

Flossing might be a bit of a hassle. No one really wants to do it, per se. But failing to floss can lead to all sorts of health problems, and not just in your mouth. Some can easily spread to other parts of your body and jeopardize your overall health. Let’s take a closer look at those problems as a dentist near DeBary explains 5 problems that happen when you neglect to floss.

Plaque Will Build Up

Even if you brush your teeth and use mouthwash after every meal, plaque will still accumulate between your teeth if you don’t floss. Food particles get trapped between your teeth and attract germs and a film made of bacteria known as plaque. If you go long enough without flossing, plaque can build up to the point that it not only looks bad but can cause a host of other health problems.

You Will Have Bad Breath

Your toothbrush or mouthwash will not remove food particles from between your teeth. When left behind, these bits of food are left to fester and contribute to terrible-smelling breath. Flossing soon after eating will remove the particles that cause bad breath.

You’re More Likely to Contract Gum Disease

Studies have shown that regular flossing can prevent gum disease. Gum disease is caused by bacteria accumulating between the teeth and around the gumline. It can eventually cause your teeth to separate from the gums, leading to loose teeth and possibly tooth loss. Flossing is the only way to eliminate the plaque that causes gum disease.

Neglecting to Floss Can Put You at Risk for Several Other Issues

Gum disease isn’t the only problem that can develop from not flossing. The inflammation characteristic of gum disease can spread to your heart and harden your arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke. Plaque buildup in between teeth can also attract organisms that cause pneumonia. Lack of flossing has also been linked to:

• Tooth decay
• Dementia
• Type 2 diabetes

Failing to Floss Can Ruin Your Smile

If food particles and bacteria are left to build up between your teeth, those teeth can gradually shift. They can become crooked and undo years of orthodontic treatment you may have had. By flossing at least once a day, ideally after each meal, you can maintain the integrity of your smile and keep your teeth straight.

Although it can seem like a chore at times, it really is worth your while to floss at least once daily. Doing so can improve your health as well as your smile. Talk to your dentist near DeBary to learn more about the benefits of flossing.

About the Author

Dr. Christopher Cowell has been practicing dentistry for more than 23 years. He majored in biology at Stetson University and then made his way to the University of Florida College of Dentistry, where he graduated in 1995. He provides family, restorative, and cosmetic dentistry at his practice near DeBary, FL. To learn more about why he recommends flossing every day, contact him on his website or call him at (386)-734-8585.